Dielectric Reflector Particles for Laser Protection Coatings

The U.S. Air Force faces an emerging threat from high energy laser systems designed to intercept air munitions prior to impact on the intended targets.  A cost effective approach would require that all existing weapons systems be upgraded with a coating that provides some degree of laser protection.  Luna Innovations Incorporated is proposing to develop a novel additive that will allow such a coating to be developed.  This technology will enable coatings which possess reflectivity across the infrared band (1 micron to 20 micron) while minimizing heating due to absorbance.  Luna will be utilizing a self-assembly process to construct particles from agglomerations of nano-sized dielectric ceramics.  The final particles are expected to possess high temperature and environmental stability with excellent reflectivity toward threat wavelengths.  After a highly focused effort to achieve materials with desired properties, Luna will leverage their aerospace coatings expertise to evaluate the requirements for a coating utilizing the new properties.  Luna is then prepared to continue the work to develop an optimized coating from the new materials. BENEFIT: Lunas dielectric reflector particles will be a first-of-a kind demonstration of dielectric mirror technology in an easily processable form.  The implication for thermal management and laser-based technologies is greatly reduced costs.  Dielectric mirror technology is now only produced on small flat parts using vapor phase technology.  Dielectric reflector particles will allow selective filtering of infrared radiation using easily applied paints and clear coats.  New products used to provide energy efficient buildings will be realized with window coatings and roof treatments.  Optical components in fiber optics communications can be reduced in cost by avoiding a costly vapor deposition step and allowing large substrates to be coated for greater production rates.